Google introduces In-app Updates API that allows Android apps to update while you're using them

Keeping your Android apps updated is going to get a little bit easier in the near future due to a new API announced by Google at their Android Dev Summit. The new In-app Updates API, offers developers two new ways to update apps while you're actively using them.

In-app Updates API

We've heard that you'd like more controls to ensure that users are running the latest and greatest version of your app. To address this, we're launching an In-app Updates API. We're testing the API with early access partners and will be launching it to all developers soon.

You'll have two options with this API; the first is a full-screen experience for critical updates when you expect the user to wait for the update to be applied immediately. The second option is a flexible update, which means the user can keep using the app while the update is downloaded. You can completely customize the update flow so it feels like part of your app.

Many apps already check to see if you're using the latest version and advise you to update if you're using an older version but with this addition, they'll now be able to offer you an update right from within the app while you're using it. Plus, when there are crucial updates needed, you'll know right away.